COMPANY DIRECTORS EXPERIENCE LIFE IN THE RESERVE

Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon. Dr Mike Kelly AM, MP has welcomed the decision of 100 Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) members to visit Townsville’s main military establishments tomorrow (Friday, 28 August).

The AICD members will be immersed in the world of the Australian Defence Force Reserves when they visit Ross Island Barracks, RAAF Base Townsville and Lavarack Barracks, as part of their 'outback forum’.

The members will visit Ross Islands Barracks to view water transport assets and experience a ride in a Landing Craft Medium (LCM-8) before travelling to RAAF Base Townsville to inspect military aircraft including the Blackhawk, Chinook and Multi-Role Helicopters and a RAAF Caribou.

The AICD members will then enjoy lunch at Lavarack Barracks before participating in a ‘bullring’ of events including a visit to the Weapons Training Simulation System to test their marksmanship skills; the Combat Training Simulation Facility; and viewing 11 Brigade Unit Displays, demonstrations, and Equipment.

Dr Kelly said the participants will actually undertake activities and not just be passive observers.

“This experience is a fantastic opportunity to witness and experience the benefits Reserve Service can have in the civilian workplace,” he said.

“On the day Defence Reserves Support staff and 11 Brigade soldiers will provide as much information as possible to the AICD members.

“They will also ensure the members understand how the Employer Support Payment Scheme and Office of Reserve Service Protection can assist them.”

For information about the Australian Defence Force Reserves visit www.defence.gov.au/reserves or call 1800 803 485.

Media note:
Media should meet Regional Manager Defence Public Affairs North Queensland Mark Tanzer (0407 467 235) at the front gate of Lavarack Barracks no later than 1.30pm Friday, 28 August to be escorted to the Weapons Training Simulation System.

Media contacts:

Deanna Nott:                                                                                   0438 013 548

Mark Sjolander (Dr Mike Kelly):             02 6277 4840 or 0407 102 220